JP6325934B2 - Image processing sensor system, image processing sensor control method, and image processing sensor used in image processing sensor system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention makes it possible to reduce the size of the imaging apparatus itself by separating the imaging apparatus from the image processing apparatus, and can detect the presence or absence of a defect with high accuracy depending on the situation, with few restrictions on the arrangement position. The present invention relates to an image processing sensor system, an image processing sensor control method, and an image processing sensor used in the image processing sensor system.

  Image processing sensors that perform an appearance inspection of an inspection target include an image processing sensor in which an illumination unit and an imaging unit are integrated to capture an image of the surface of the inspection target. Then, image processing is executed on the image data of the image of the surface of the inspection object taken by the semiconductor device built in the image processing sensor. After performing various types of image processing using the built-in semiconductor device, the result of the determination processing whether or not the product is a non-defective product is output to the PLC or the like, or the captured image is displayed on an external computer. The built-in semiconductor device also accepts input of information set by an external computer.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image processing sensor in which a conventional illumination unit and an imaging unit are integrated. In Patent Document 1, an image processing sensor includes an imaging device, and is connected to a display device (monitor) with a connection cable. An FPGA, DSP, or the like that executes image processing in the imaging device of the image processing sensor is used as an image processing unit. I have. In addition, the imaging apparatus includes a plurality of LEDs as an illumination unit so as to surround the periphery of a lens that captures an image.

JP 2013-110513 A

  However, in the image processing sensor disclosed in Patent Document 1, due to the size of the image processing sensor itself, a plurality of image processing sensors cannot be arranged adjacent to each other, or a place where the arrangement is possible is restricted. There was a point.

  In addition, in order for a user to check images captured by a plurality of imaging devices, the image processing sensor needs to be connected to an external computer or display device. In addition, since various parameters used for the inspection of the image processing sensor are set for each imaging apparatus, it is necessary to connect each image processing sensor to an external computer. Therefore, a cable for connecting to an external computer is required for each image processing sensor, and the work including the arrangement of the cables is complicated.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an image processing sensor system, an image processing sensor control method, and an image processing sensor capable of downsizing an imaging apparatus and simplifying wiring of a cable. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing sensor used in the system.

Image processing sensor system according to a first invention to achieve the above object, an imaging device having an illumination unit for irradiating light to the imaging unit and the test object to image the inspection object, between the imaging device Connected to the imaging device via a connection cable for data communication, a connecting connector is provided on the side of the housing , and image processing is performed on an image acquired by the imaging device to determine whether the inspection object is good or bad have a plurality image processing sensors and a determining image processing apparatus, the plurality of image processing sensor, the housing of the plurality of image processing apparatuses are arranged adjacently, facing the plurality of image processing apparatus the coupling connectors are connected at the side surface, an image processing sensor system for communicating data including image through the coupling connector between the image processing apparatus that are adjacent to each other, small Both image processing apparatus according to an image processing sensor includes an image processing unit for performing image processing on the image acquired by the imaging device of the first image processing sensor, the image which the image processing by the image processing unit is performed the data containing the external communicate interface for sending computer or the display device, arranged to intervene between said image processing section the communication interface, yet the image processing device of the image processing sensor the one And an Ethernet switch for Ethernet communication with the external computer or display device via the communication interface, and the Ethernet switch performs image processing with another image processing sensor. the data including the execution image, after receiving through the connecting connector, the communication in Through the face and transmits to the external computer or the display device.

The image processing sensor system according to a second aspect of the present invention is the image processing sensor system according to the first aspect, wherein the one image processing sensor includes image data after image processing, including image data after image processing by the other image processing sensor. A processing result storage unit for storing the image data, and the image data after image processing stored in the processing result storage unit is transmitted to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface; .

An image processing sensor system according to a third invention is the image processing sensor system according to the first invention, instead of the communication interface provided in the one image processing sensor and capable of data communication with the external computer or the display device. A communication unit having another communication interface for data communication with the external computer or the display device is separately provided.

An image processing sensor system according to a fourth invention is the image processing sensor system according to any one of the first to third inventions, wherein the one image processing sensor includes a power supply terminal, and the one image processing sensor is the other image processing sensor. Power is supplied to the image processing sensor.

An image processing sensor system according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the communication system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein at least one of the plurality of image processing sensors detects the occurrence of a communication loop. A loop detection unit is provided, and when the occurrence of a communication loop is detected, the one image processing sensor executes a process of cutting the detected communication loop.

Next, the control method of the image processing sensor according to the sixth invention to achieve the above object, an imaging device having an illumination unit for irradiating light to the imaging unit and the test object to image the inspection object, wherein The inspection device is connected to the imaging device via a connection cable for data communication with the imaging device , a connection connector is provided on a side surface of the housing, and performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device. It has a quality multiple image processing sensors and a determining image processing apparatus of the object, wherein the plurality of image processing sensor, the housing of the plurality of image processing apparatuses are arranged adjacent, the plurality of images wherein the opposite sides of the processing apparatus connecting the connectors are connected, performed by the image processing sensor system for communicating data including image through the coupling connector between the image processing apparatus that are adjacent to each other A method of controlling an image processing sensor capable Rukoto, the image processing apparatus of at least one image processing sensor, the image processing for performing image processing on the acquired image by the imaging apparatus of the first image processing sensor and parts, the data including an image in which the image processing has been performed by the image processing unit, and a communication interface for transmitting to an external computer or display device, interposed between said image processing section the communication interface And an Ethernet switch connected to a connection connector provided in the image processing device of the one image processing sensor, and for Ethernet communication with the external computer or display device via the communication interface, The Ethernet switch is data including an image subjected to image processing by another image processing sensor. , After receiving through the connecting connector, and transmits via the communication interface to the external computer or the display equipment.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control method for an image processing sensor according to the sixth aspect , wherein the one image processing sensor is configured to receive image data after image processing and image data after image processing in the other image processing sensor. The one image processing sensor transmits the stored image data after image processing to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface.

An image processing sensor control method according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the method according to the sixth aspect , wherein the plurality of image processing sensors communicate data with the external computer or the display device provided in the one image processing sensor. In place of the communication interface, data communication can be performed with the external computer or the display device via a communication unit having another communication interface for data communication with the external computer or the display device. And

An image processing sensor control method according to a ninth invention is the method according to any one of the sixth to eighth inventions, wherein at least one of the plurality of image processing sensors detects the occurrence of a communication loop. When the occurrence of a communication loop is detected, the one image processing sensor executes a process for disconnecting the detected communication loop.

Next, the image processing sensor according to the tenth aspect for achieving the above object, an imaging device having an illumination unit for irradiating light to the imaging unit and the test object to image the inspection object, said imaging device Connected to the imaging device via a connection cable for data communication between them, a coupling connector is provided on the side of the housing , and image processing is performed on an image acquired by the imaging device to in the image processing sensor and a determining image processing apparatus the quality, and other image processing sensor, the housing of the plurality of image processing apparatus is located adjacent said at opposite sides of said plurality of image processing apparatus connecting the connectors are connected, to communicate data including an image through the coupling connector between the image processing apparatus that are adjacent to each other, the image processing apparatus, acquired by the imaging device images Wherein an image processing unit for performing image processing for the data including an image in which the image processing has been performed by the image processing unit, and a communication interface for transmitting to an external computer or display device, and the image processing unit An Ethernet switch disposed between the communication interface and connected to a connection connector provided in the image processing apparatus, and for Ethernet communication with the external computer or the display device via the communication interface ; wherein the Ethernet switch, the data including an image in which the image processing has been performed outside, after receiving through the connecting connector, be sent to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface and wherein and Turkey.

An image processing sensor according to an eleventh aspect of the invention comprises a communication loop detection means for detecting the occurrence of a communication loop in the tenth aspect , and executes a process for cutting the detected communication loop when the occurrence of the communication loop is detected. It is characterized by doing.

In the first invention, the sixth invention, and the tenth invention, in order to perform data communication between the imaging device having an imaging unit that images the inspection object and an illumination unit that irradiates light to the inspection object, and the imaging device via the connecting cable is connected to the imaging device, connecting a connector is provided on the housing side, and determining the image processing apparatus the quality of the inspection object by performing image processing on the acquired image by the imaging apparatus A plurality of image processing sensors, wherein a plurality of image processing devices are arranged adjacent to each other, and connecting connectors on opposite side surfaces of the plurality of image processing devices are connected to each other. since communicating data including image via the connecting connector between the adjacent image processing apparatus can be made compact imaging apparatus, even when placed adjacent a plurality image processing sensors, shooting Since the device can be placed adjacent, less restriction of where to place. The image processing device of at least one image processing sensor includes an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device of the one image processing sensor, and an image that has been subjected to image processing by the image processing unit. data including a communication interface for transmitting to an external computer or display device, arranged to intervene between the image processing unit and communication interface, yet provided to the image processing device of the image processing sensor the one And an Ethernet switch for Ethernet communication with an external computer or display device via a communication interface. The Ethernet switch includes an image that has been subjected to image processing by another image processing sensor. After the data is received via the connection connector, the external And it transmits computer or to the display device, without increasing the processing load of the first image processing sensor can communicate external computer or the display device and the data independently. In addition, since the Ethernet cable connected to the communication interface used for data communication with an external computer or display device is connected to only one image processing sensor, even if a plurality of image processing sensors are used, the cables Wiring is not complicated. Furthermore, since an Ethernet switch is used, large-capacity data communication can be performed at high speed without causing data communication collision.

In the second and seventh inventions, one image processing sensor stores image data after image processing, including image data after image processing by other image processing sensors. Since one image processing sensor performs data communication with an external computer or display device via a communication interface, stored image data after image processing is collectively displayed at an arbitrary timing with the external computer or display device. Can be sent to.

In the third and eighth aspects of the invention, instead of the communication interface provided in one image processing sensor capable of data communication with an external computer or display device, other data communication with the external computer or display device is possible. Since the communication unit having the communication interface is separately provided, the image processing sensor can perform data communication with an external computer or a display device via the communication interface of the communication unit via the Ethernet switch.

In the fourth invention, only one image processing sensor is provided with a power supply terminal, and power is supplied from one image processing sensor to another image processing sensor. As a result, the manufacturing cost can be reduced. In addition, since only one power cable is required, the wiring of the power cable is not complicated even when a plurality of image processing sensors are used.

In the fifth invention, the ninth invention, and the eleventh invention, at least one of the plurality of image processing sensors includes a communication loop detection means for detecting the occurrence of a communication loop, and detects the occurrence of the communication loop. In this case, the one image processing sensor executes a process for cutting the detected communication loop. As a result, when a communication loop is detected in at least one image processing sensor, the process of cutting the communication loop can be executed quickly, and this is a case where an elementary mistake such as a wiring error has occurred. However, the communication loop can be surely eliminated.

In the present invention, the imaging device includes an imaging unit that images the inspection object and an illumination unit that irradiates light to the inspection object, and a connection cable for data communication with the imaging device. is connected to a housing side connecting connector is provided, have a plurality image processing sensors and a determining image processing apparatus the quality of the inspection object by performing image processing for the images acquired by the imaging device In the plurality of image processing sensors, the housings of the plurality of image processing apparatuses are arranged adjacent to each other, the connection connectors on the opposite side surfaces of the plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected, and the image processing apparatuses are adjacent to each other. since communicating data including image via the coupling connector can be downsized imaging apparatus, even when placed adjacent a plurality image processing sensors are positioned adjacent the imaging device Since bets can, less restriction of where to place. The image processing device of at least one image processing sensor includes an image processing unit that performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device of the one image processing sensor, and an image that has been subjected to image processing by the image processing unit. data including, provided a communications interface for sending to an external computer or display device, arranged to intervene between the image processing unit and communication interface, yet the image processing device of the image processing sensor the one And an Ethernet switch for Ethernet communication with an external computer or display device via a communication interface. The Ethernet switch displays an image that has been subjected to image processing by another image processing sensor. data including, after receiving via a connection connector, the external co via the communication interface And it transmits computer or to the display device, without increasing the processing load of the first image processing sensor may be a data communication with an external computer or the display device independently. In addition, since the Ethernet cable connected to the communication interface used for data communication with an external computer or display device is connected to only one image processing sensor, even if a plurality of image processing sensors are used, the cables Wiring is not complicated. Furthermore, since an Ethernet switch is used, large-capacity data communication can be performed at high speed without causing data communication collision.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an outline drawing showing the composition of the imaging device of the image processing sensor concerning Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the imaging device of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the Ethernet connection process of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention, and another controller and an external computer or a display apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of an Ethernet connection process with the controller of the computer outside the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the list of controllers displayed with the computer outside the image processing sensor system concerning Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the update process of the setting information of the computer outside the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the transmission process of the image data from the image processing sensor of the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention to an external computer or a display apparatus. It is a schematic circuit diagram which shows the connection form of the Ethernet switch of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the list of the controllers displayed on the computer outside the image processing sensor system concerning Embodiment 2 of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the list of controllers displayed with the computer outside the image processing sensor system concerning Embodiment 3 of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the overlap state of the irradiation area | region of the illumination of the imaging device of the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the switch switching process of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the setting screen of ON / OFF (valid / invalid) of the mutual interference prevention function in the external computer or display apparatus of the image processing sensor system concerning Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the batch setting screen of ON / OFF of the mutual interference prevention function in the external computer or display apparatus of the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the mutual interference prevention process of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is an illustration figure of the timing chart of the various signals of the image processing sensor system concerning Embodiment 4 of the present invention. It is an illustration figure of the connection state in which the communication loop of the image processing sensor system which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention may generate | occur | produce. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the communication loop detection process of the controller of the image processing sensor which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, an image processing sensor system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that elements having the same or similar configuration or function are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals throughout the drawings referred to in the description of this embodiment, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, a case where an image processing sensor that performs pass / fail determination of an inspection target is used in the image processing sensor system will be described as an example.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of an image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing sensor used in the image processing sensor system according to the first embodiment is connected to the imaging device 1 through a connection cable so as to be able to perform data communication with the imaging device 1. It comprises an apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a controller) 2.

  The imaging apparatus 1 includes a camera module (imaging unit) having an image sensor that images an inspection object, and an illumination unit that irradiates light to the inspection object. In order to reduce the size of the imaging apparatus 1, the controller 2 that executes image processing is provided separately from the imaging apparatus 1. In the image processing, a part of processing (preprocessing such as filter processing) is executed in the imaging apparatus 1, the image data after execution is transmitted to the controller 2, and the remaining image processing is executed by the controller 2. The captured image may be transmitted to the controller 2 as it is.

  The controller 2 connected to the imaging device 1 with a connection cable includes an FPGA, a DSP, and the like that execute image processing therein, and controls the operations of the imaging unit and the illumination unit of the imaging device 1 and acquires them. Perform image processing on the image. In particular, the DSP performs color area detection processing, pattern search processing, and the like on the image. Further, as a result of the image processing, an OK / NG signal (determination signal) indicating whether the inspection object is good or not is output depending on whether the inspection object is detected. Of course, the FPGA may be executed depending on circumstances. The OK / NG signal is sent from the I / O connector 213 provided in the controllers 2p and 2q to the external PLC, other photoelectric sensor / proximity sensor, indicator lamp, etc. (hereinafter, PLC etc.) via the I / O cable. Is output. The I / O connector 213 is provided in each controller 2 including not only the parent device 2p but also the child device 2q.

  The plurality of controllers 2 arranged adjacent to each other are connected so as to be able to perform data communication with each other. Of the plurality of controllers 2 connected to each other, at least one controller 2p includes an Ethernet connector 214 and a power supply terminal 215 as a parent device. The other controller 2q, which is a slave unit, is connected to at least one controller 2p (master unit). In FIG. 1, four slave units 2q are connected. However, the number of slave units to be connected is not limited to this. For example, any number of slave units such as eight slave units and sixteen slave units can be connected. The machine can be set to connection.

  The plurality of image processing sensors and the external computer 3 or display device 4 are connected via at least one controller (master) 2p Ethernet connector 214 and Ethernet cable 23, and perform image data communication. The plurality of controllers 2 arranged adjacent to each other perform data communication with each other.

  As data to be communicated, for example, image data (including image data after image processing) of an image captured by the image capturing device 1 connected to each controller 2, setting by the external computer 3 or the display device 4 is set. There are received setting data, a mutual interference prevention trigger signal described later, and the like.

  From the parent device 2p to the child device 2q, a mutual interference prevention trigger signal and setting data whose setting is received from the external computer 3 or the display device 4 are transmitted. From the slave unit 2q located near the master unit 2p to the slave unit 2q located further away, the mutual interference prevention trigger signal, the setting was received from the external computer 3 or the display device 4 via the master unit 2p. Setting data is transmitted.

  From the slave unit 2q located near the master unit 2p to the master unit 2p, the image data acquired by the slave unit 2q and the image acquired by the slave unit 2q located farther from the master unit 2p than the slave unit 2q Data and other control signals are transmitted. From the slave unit 2q located away from the master unit 2p to the slave unit 2q closer to the master unit 2p, the image data acquired by the slave unit 2q located away from the master unit 2p is further away from the master unit 2p than the slave unit 2q. The image data acquired by the handset 2q at the selected position and other control signals are transmitted.

  The external computer 3 and the display device 4 can transmit the setting data to the controller (parent device) 2p, and also transmit the setting data to the other controller (slave device) 2q via the controller (parent device) 2p. Data including image data stored in the controller 2 can be read out.

  The external computer 3 is used by installing a computer program for operating the image processing sensor in a commercially available personal computer or the like.

  The display device 4 is smaller than the external computer 3. For example, the display device 4 includes a touch panel type display unit as a display unit, and has a display function and a communication function with the controller 2.

  In FIG. 1, adjacent controllers 2 are connected by connector pins (not shown), and the controllers 2 are in contact with each other. In FIG. 1, a female pin (not shown) is provided on the right side of the paper surface of the controller 2, and a male pin (not shown) is provided on the left side of the paper surface of the controller 2. In FIG. 1, a male pin is not provided on the left side of the paper surface of the master unit 2p.

  In FIG. 1, the master unit 2p is arranged on the left side of the page, and the slave unit 2q is arranged on the right side of the master unit 2p. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The machine 2q may be arranged, or the child machine 2q may be arranged on both sides of the parent machine 2p.

  In FIG. 1, the Ethernet cable 23 is connected to both the external computer 3 and the display device 4, but data communication is performed with the controller 2 using either one.

  In FIG. 1, five image processing sensors (the imaging device 1 and the controller 2) are illustrated. The imaging devices 1 of the three image processing sensors from the left of the page are arranged close to each other to form one group. Similarly, the imaging devices 1 of the two image processing sensors from the right are arranged close to each other to form another group. Thus, the imaging devices 1 of a plurality of image processing sensors can be grouped, and the mutual interference prevention function shown in the fourth embodiment described later can be used. That is, in one group formed by three image processing sensors, the imaging device 1 is arranged at a position close enough to overlap the imaging region or irradiation region indicated by the broken line in FIG. In the other groups formed by the imaging device 1, the imaging device 1 is arranged at a position close to the same extent.

  The imaging device 1 is smaller than the imaging device 1 of the conventional image processing sensor, and can be placed even in a small space. Therefore, even when the imaging devices 1 are arranged side by side so as to face the same direction, they can be arranged at positions close enough to overlap the imaging regions or irradiation regions.

  Of course, it is also possible to inspect separate inspection objects by using them as independent image processing sensors without grouping as shown in FIG. In this case, the imaging device 1 is arranged at a position not related to each other, but the controllers 2 arranged adjacent to each other are connected to each other, so that management by the external computer 3 or the display device 4 is easy. .

  As shown in FIG. 1, an image processing sensor having an imaging device 1 and a controller 2 is connected to an external computer 3 and a display device 4 via an Ethernet cable 23 to constitute an image processing sensor system.

  FIG. 2 is an outline view showing the configuration of the imaging device 1 of the image processing sensor according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 2A is a front view showing the configuration of the imaging apparatus 1 of the image processing sensor according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2B is an image processing sensor according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The schematic sectional drawing which shows the structure of the imaging device 1 of each is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the imaging apparatus 1 has a lens 121 disposed near the center of the front as the imaging unit 12, and a plurality of illumination units 11 (FIG. 2) so as to surround the lens 121. Then, four) LEDs 111 are arranged. A reflector (not shown) is provided in front of the LED 111. At the time of imaging, by turning on the plurality of LEDs 111, it is possible to irradiate the inspection object with light and to clearly image the inspection object. The illumination unit 11 is not limited to the four LEDs 111 provided around the imaging unit 12 (lens 121), and one or more illumination tools may be provided in the imaging apparatus 1 as the illumination unit 11. It ’s fine.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the imaging unit 12 of the imaging device 1 is a movable unit that can change the distance between the CMOS substrate 122 and the lens 121 on which an imaging element such as a CMOS image sensor or a CCD is mounted. As shown in FIG. The focus control unit 123 moves the CMOS substrate 122 back and forth in accordance with a signal from the controller 2 to realize an autofocus function.

  Further, the illumination unit 11 is provided with a reflector (light guide unit) 112 in front of the LED 111. Thereby, the light irradiated from LED111 is brought close to parallel light as much as possible.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the imaging device 1 of the image processing sensor according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 3, the imaging device 1 of the image processing sensor according to the first embodiment includes an imaging unit 12 and an illumination unit 11. The main board 13 controls each operation, and the communication board 14 is a controller. 2 is controlled. For example, by driving the motor 124 of the imaging unit 12 in accordance with a control signal for controlling the autofocus operation from the main board 13, the focus control unit 123 shown in FIG. 2 moves back and forth to control the autofocus operation. . Then, the inspection object is imaged in accordance with the imaging instruction signal from the main board 13.

  In the first embodiment, a CMOS substrate 122 on which an image sensor is mounted is provided, and a color image captured by the CMOS substrate 122 is subjected to filter processing by, for example, the FPGA 131 and then image data after image processing. Is output. In other words, image conversion processing or the like with a large arithmetic processing load is not executed in the imaging apparatus 1, so that it is relatively necessary to reduce the size of the semiconductor device provided in the imaging apparatus 1 or to arrange it in consideration of heat dissipation. Therefore, the imaging device 1 can be reduced in size.

  The main board 13 controls the operation of each connected part. For example, a control signal for controlling turning on / off of the plurality of LEDs 111 is transmitted to the LED driver 113 to the illumination unit 11. The LED driver 113 adjusts, for example, lighting / extinguishing of the LED 111, the amount of light, and the like according to a control signal from the FPGA 131. In addition, a control signal for controlling the autofocus operation is transmitted to the motor 124 of the imaging unit 12 via the motor driver 134 of the main board 13, and an imaging instruction signal or the like is transmitted to the CMOS board 122. .

  The communication board 14 transmits the image data about the inspection object output from the main board 13 to the controller 2. Further, the control signal of the imaging device 1 is received from the controller 2, and the received control signal is transmitted to the main board 13.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 4, one controller 2p that functions as a parent device and another controller 2q that functions as a child device are connected adjacently. The other controller 2q is connected in series in succession next to the other controller 2q that is a slave unit and is connected adjacent to the one controller 2p that is the master unit. The connection connectors 211 are connected to one controller 2p that is a parent device and the other controller 2q that is a child device. In the first embodiment, one controller 2p which is a master unit is connected to a main board 21 composed of a microcomputer, FPGA, DSP, gate array, etc., with an Ethernet switch 210, a connection connector 211, an imaging device connector 212, I The / O connector 213, the Ethernet connector 214, and the power supply terminal 215 are connected. In addition, the other controller 2q as a slave unit is connected to the main board 21 with the Ethernet switch 210, the connection connector 211, the imaging device connector 212, and the I / O connector 213. Unlike 2p, the Ethernet connector 214 and the power supply terminal 215 are not provided.

  The main board 21 is not limited to a single unit such as a microcomputer, an FPGA, a DSP, and a gate array, and may be configured by combining, for example, an FPGA and a DSP and a DSP and a gate array. However, it may be constituted by a plurality of DSPs for parallel processing. The main board 21 includes, as function blocks, a trigger control unit 201, an I / O control unit 202, a mutual interference control unit 203, an image processing unit 204, an image data storage unit 205, an image processing result storage unit 206, an Ethernet communication control unit 207, A setting storage unit 208, an imaging device communication control unit 209, and the like are provided. The trigger control unit 201 controls the imaging timing signal (trigger signal) and transmits it to the imaging device 1.

  The I / O control unit 202 performs data communication of I / O signals with an external input / output device (not shown). The imaging timing signal is transmitted to the imaging device 1 when it is received from the PLC by the I / O connector 213, when reception from the external computer 3 or display device 4 is detected, or when it is issued from a built-in timer. The

  The mutual interference control unit 203 turns on / off the illumination in one imaging device 1 and the timing of imaging, and turns on the illumination in the other imaging device 1 so that the imaging devices 1 do not interfere with each other between a plurality of image processing sensors. This is for controlling the turn-off and imaging timing. Details will be described in Embodiment 4.

  The image processing unit 204 performs image processing on the image data captured and received by the imaging device 1. For example, color area detection processing, pattern search processing, and the like are performed on the image data. An OK / NG signal (determination signal) indicating whether or not the inspection object is good depending on whether or not the inspection object is detected is output from the I / O control unit 202 via the I / O connector 213 as an image processing result. It is output to an output device (not shown) such as a PLC.

  The image data storage unit 205 stores image data. The image data storage unit 205 stores both an image currently captured by the imaging apparatus 1 and image data captured in the past. The image processing result storage unit 206 stores image data subjected to image processing and processing results such as pattern search processing.

  The Ethernet communication control unit 207 controls Ethernet communication, and executes output of image data and the like stored in the image data storage unit 205 to the external computer 3 or the display device 4, transmission / reception of setting data, and the like. One controller 2p, which is a parent device, controls communication with an external computer 3 or display device 4, and another controller 2q, which is a child device, controls communication with the external computer 3 or display device 4. Controls communication via the Ethernet switch 210 of one controller 2p which is a parent device. The setting storage unit 208 stores setting information such as an IP address, a MAC address, and setting data for a mutual interference prevention function.

  The imaging device communication control unit 209 controls communication between the controller 2 and the imaging device 1, and executes reception of image data from the imaging device 1, transmission of imaging condition setting data to the imaging device 1, and the like.

  The Ethernet switch 210 is a hub for Ethernet communication. The Ethernet switch 210 of one controller 2p that is a parent device secures a data communication path with another controller 2q that is an adjacently connected child device. The Ethernet switch 210 of the other controller 2q as a slave unit secures a data communication path (signal line) with the controller 2 (2p or 2q) connected to both sides. The Ethernet switch 210 of one controller 2p, which is a parent device, is connected to the Ethernet connector 214, and is connected to the external computer 3 or the display device 4 via the Ethernet cable 23 shown in FIG.

(1) Setting data transmission method When setting data is transmitted from the external computer 3 or the display device 4 to the controller 2, the master data is transmitted to the controller 2p via the Ethernet connector 214 of the controller 2p. It is transmitted to the Ethernet switch 210 of the controller 2p. In the external computer 3 or the display device 4, which controller 2 of the plurality of image processing sensors is to transmit the setting data is designated using an IP address or the like. When the Ethernet switch 210 determines that the transmission destination of the setting data is not its own device, and determines that the transmission destination of the setting data is its own device, the Ethernet switch 210 sets the setting data to the next controller 2 connected adjacently. Is sent (transferred). The setting data is input to the main board 21 via the Ethernet switch 210 of the controller 2 designated by the external computer 3 or the display device 4.

(2) Method for Transmitting Image Data to External Computer 3 or Display Device 4 The connection connector 211 connects adjacent controllers 2 and functions as a transmission / reception path for control signals such as a mutual interference trigger signal and image data, for example. To do. The external computer 3 or the display device 4 selects from which controller 2 the image data is to be read out of the plurality of image processing sensors. When the slave unit 2q immediately adjacent to the master unit 2p is selected, signals for reading image data are connected to the Ethernet cable 23, the Ethernet connector 214 of the master unit 2p, the Ethernet switch 210, the connection connector 211, and the slave unit 2q. The data is input to the main board 21 of the slave unit 2q via the connector 211 and the Ethernet switch 210. Image data is read from the image data storage unit 205 of the slave unit 2q, and the external computer 3 or the display is displayed via the Ethernet switch 210 and the connection connector 211 of the slave unit 2q, and the connection connector 211 and the Ethernet switch 210 of the master unit 2p. Read out to the device 4. The signal for reading image data and the image data are not input to the main board 21 in the master unit 2p but transferred to the slave unit 2q via the Ethernet switch 210.

  In FIG. 4, a control signal such as a mutual interference trigger signal is transmitted from the main board 21 of one controller 2p, which is a parent device, to another controller 2q, which is a child device connected adjacently via a connection connector 211. It is transmitted to the main board 21. Then, power is also supplied from the power supply terminal 215 of one controller 2p, which is a parent device, to the main board 21 of one controller 2p, which is the parent device, and is connected adjacently via a connection connector 211. Is supplied to another controller 2q. Similarly, electric power is supplied to other controllers 2q which are all slave units connected in series.

  The imaging device connector 212 is connected to the imaging device 1 for each controller 2, transmits setting information, an autofocus control signal, and the like, and receives image data and the like. The I / O connector 213 transmits / receives an I / O signal to / from an external input / output device (not shown).

  The Ethernet connector 214 is provided at least in the master unit 2p. The Ethernet connector 214 is connected to the Ethernet switch 210 and is also used for data communication with the computer 3 or the display device 4 outside the slave unit 2q. The power terminal 215 is provided only in the master unit 2p. Power is supplied from the parent device 2p to the child device 2q via the connection connector 211. With such a configuration, even when a plurality of image processing sensors are used, the wiring of the Ethernet cable 23 or the power cable can be simplified, and the replacement or replacement of the image processing sensor can be easily performed. It can be carried out.

  That is, by providing the Ethernet connector 214 and the power supply terminal 215 only at least in the parent device 2p, the complexity of wiring of cables can be eliminated.

  Among the plurality of controllers 2 shown in FIG. 4, the difference between one controller 2p that is a parent device and another controller 2q that is a child device is that an Ethernet connector 214 is provided in one controller 2p that is a parent device. On the other hand, it is not provided in the other controller 2q as a slave unit.

  In the first embodiment, “the Ethernet connector 214 is not provided” means not only when the Ethernet connector 214 is not physically provided but also when the Ethernet connector 214 is provided but connected to the Ethernet switch 210. It means that the network interface is not functioning as a communication interface for Ethernet communication, such as when not connected to an internal signal line.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure of Ethernet connection processing between another controller (slave unit) 2 and an external computer 3 or display device 4 of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention. . FIG. 5A shows a processing procedure when an IP address is not assigned to the controller 2, and FIG. 5B shows a processing procedure when an IP address is assigned to the controller 2. ing.

  First, in FIG. 5A, the controller 2 transmits a BOOTP packet to an external BOOTP server (step S501). The controller 2 determines whether or not a certain time has elapsed since the transmission of the BOOTP packet (step S502), and when the controller 2 determines that it has not yet elapsed (step S502: NO), the controller 2 It will be in a waiting state.

  When the controller 2 determines that the time has elapsed (step S502: YES), the controller 2 determines whether a dynamic IP address has been acquired (step S503). When the controller 2 determines that the IP address has not been acquired (step S503: NO), the controller 2 returns the process to step S501 and repeats the above-described process. When the controller 2 determines that the IP address has been acquired (step S503: YES), the controller 2 ends the process.

  Next, in FIG. 5B, the controller 2 determines whether or not a search packet has been received (step S504). When the controller 2 determines that the search packet has not been received yet (step S504: NO), the controller 2 enters a reception waiting state. When the controller 2 determines that the search packet has been received (step S504: YES), the controller 2 transmits a response packet (step S505).

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure of Ethernet connection processing with the controller 2 of the computer 3 outside the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The processing procedure itself is the same even when the display device 4 is used instead of the external computer 3.

  In FIG. 6, the external computer 3 determines whether or not the designation of the IP address of the controller 2 to be connected has been received (step S601). When the external computer 3 determines that the designation is not accepted (step S601: NO), the external computer 3 transmits a search packet to the controller 2 (step S602).

  The external computer 3 determines whether or not a certain time has elapsed since the search packet was transmitted (step S603). When the external computer 3 determines that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed (step S603: NO), the external computer 3 enters a waiting state. If the external computer 3 determines that a certain time has elapsed (step S603: YES), the external computer 3 determines whether a response packet or a BOOTP packet for the search packet has been received from the controller 2 (step S604). ).

  When it is determined that the external computer 3 is not receiving (step S604: NO), the external computer 3 determines that there is no controller 2 to be connected in the network, and executes error processing (step S611), the process is terminated. When it is determined that the external computer 3 has received (step S604: YES), the external computer 3 displays a list of controllers 2 to be connected (step S605).

  FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a list of controllers 2 displayed on the computer 3 outside the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 7, the controller 2 including the Ethernet connector 214 and the power supply terminal 215 is the parent device 2p, and the other controller 2 is the child device 2q. The model, MAC address, IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway of the imaging device 1 are displayed for each of the master unit 2p and the slave unit 2q. Such information may be included as information in a response packet, a BOOTP packet, or the like of the parent device 2p and the child device 2q, or may be included as information in a response packet, a BOOTP packet, or the like of the parent device 2p. Further, by adding a separate dedicated serial communication line between the parent device 2p and the child device 2q, the information of the child device 2q may be collected in the parent device 2p.

  In FIG. 7, three master units 2p are connected on the same network to the computer 3 outside the image processing sensor system according to the first embodiment. That is, the master unit 2p to which the three slave units 2q are connected, the master unit 2p to which the slave unit 2q is not connected, and the master unit 2p to which the two slave units 2q are connected to the external computer 3, respectively. This is an example of the case. In this way, one external computer 3 can be connected not only to a combination of a pair of parent devices 2p and a child device 2q, but also to a combination of a plurality of parent devices 2p and a plurality of child devices 2q. it can.

  In the example of the display screen shown in FIG. 7, the parent device 2p and the child device 2q connected to the parent device 2p are shown in a tree shape, which parent device 2p is connected to which parent device 2p, It is possible to easily confirm the IP address of some slave unit 2q from a certain master unit 2p. When a plurality of slave units 2q are connected to one master unit 2p, when trying to perform maintenance for a certain slave unit 2q or visually checking with a connected external computer 3, an IP address, etc. It is easy to confirm the identification information of the individual and the physical positional relationship (which controller 2 is) with the parent device 2p. Although there is only one Ethernet connector 214 of the master unit 2p, one external computer 3 and a plurality of master units are installed by installing a commercially available Ethernet hub between the external computer 3 and the master unit 2p. Data communication can be performed with 2p.

  Returning to FIG. 6, the external computer 3 accepts selection of the controller 2 to be connected by the user from the list of controllers 2 (step S606). The external computer 3 displays an IP address assignment screen for explicitly assigning an IP address (step S607), and accepts an IP address assignment setting by the user (step S608).

  When the external computer 3 determines that the specification of the IP address of the controller 2 to be connected is received (step S601: YES), the external computer 3 determines whether the connection is successful (step S609). . Here, “successfully connected” means that a logical connection is established and a TCP connection is established. Steps S607 and S608 are executed only when the controller 2 has an unassigned IP address.

  When the external computer 3 determines that the connection has failed (step S609: NO), the external computer 3 executes error processing (step S611) and ends the processing. When the external computer 3 determines that the connection is successful (step S609: YES), the external computer 3 reads the setting information, image data, image processing result, and the like from the connected controller 2 (step S610). The process is terminated.

  In this way, the external computer 3 and the controller 2 are connected. The setting data can be transmitted from the external computer 3 to the connected controller 2, or the image data stored in the controller 2 can be displayed on the external computer 3. Similarly, it is possible not only to connect the external computer 3 and one controller 2p which is a parent device, but also to another controller 2q which is a child device.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a procedure of setting information update processing of the computer 3 outside the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The processing procedure itself is the same even when the display device 4 is used instead of the external computer 3.

  In FIG. 8, the external computer 3 displays the setting information read from the connected controller 2 (step S801). The external computer 3 receives an update of the setting information by the user (step S802), and transmits the updated setting information to the controller 2 (step S803). The controller 2 that is the transmission destination is either one of the controllers 2p that is a parent device connected by the procedure shown in FIG. 6 or another controller 2q that is a child device.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure of image data transmission processing from the image processing sensor to the external computer 3 or display device 4 in the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The flow on the left side of FIG. 9 shows the procedure of image data transmission processing in the controller 2 of the image processing sensor, and the flow on the right side of FIG. 9 shows the procedure of image data acquisition processing in the imaging device 1. . The processing procedure itself is the same even when the display device 4 is used instead of the external computer 3.

  In FIG. 9, the controller 2 determines whether or not an imaging timing signal (trigger signal) for starting imaging has been received (step S901). When the controller 2 determines that the imaging timing signal (trigger signal) has not been received (step S901: NO), the controller 2 enters a reception waiting state. The imaging timing signal (trigger signal) may be received from the I / O connector 213, or may be received from another controller 2q that is a slave unit at a position close to one controller 2p that is the master unit. .

  When the controller 2 determines that the imaging timing signal (trigger signal) has been received (step S901: YES), the controller 2 transmits the imaging timing signal (trigger signal) to the imaging device 1 (step S902).

  The imaging device 1 determines whether an imaging timing signal (trigger signal) for starting imaging has been received (step S906). When it is determined that the imaging device 1 has not received the imaging timing signal (trigger signal) (step S906: NO), the imaging device 1 enters a reception waiting state.

  When the imaging apparatus 1 determines that the imaging timing signal (trigger signal) has been received (step S906: YES), the imaging apparatus 1 executes imaging processing of the inspection object under the set imaging conditions (step S907). ) Preprocessing such as filtering is performed on the captured image data (step S908). The imaging device 1 transmits the preprocessed image data to the controller 2 (step S909).

  The controller 2 determines whether image data has been received from the imaging device 1 (step S903). When the controller 2 determines that image data has not been received (step S903: NO), the controller 2 enters a state of waiting for reception of image data.

  When the controller 2 determines that the image data has been received (step S903: YES), the controller 2 executes image processing on the received image data (step S904), and the image data after the image processing is externally transmitted. It transmits to the computer 3 (step S905).

  Note that the timing at which the image data is transmitted to the external computer 3 may be during the time when image processing is being performed on image data different from the image data to be transmitted. That is, it may be transmitted during execution of color area detection processing, pattern search processing, or the like for other image data, or before an imaging timing signal (trigger signal) for imaging the next image is transmitted to the imaging apparatus 1. It may be.

  Further, it is possible to accept selection of which image data of which controller 2 of the controllers 2 by GUI operation from the display screen of the external computer 3 or the display device 4. For example, a selection is accepted from a plurality of controller 2 candidates, and the latest image data captured by the imaging device 1 connected to the selected controller 2 and a determination result such as the presence or absence of a defect are requested to be displayed. be able to. Selection from the external computer 3 or the display device 4 can be accepted independently of the imaging processing and image processing of the controller 2 and the imaging device 1, and can be independently transmitted to one controller 2p which is a parent device. Can do.

  The same applies when a plurality of controllers 2 are connected in series. For example, when three units of a master unit (controller) 2p, a slave unit (controller) 2q (1), and a slave unit (controller) 2q (2) are connected in series, the display screen of the external computer 3 or the display device 4 When the selection of the slave unit 2q (2) is received from the mobile phone 2q (2), a signal for reading the image data is transmitted to the slave unit 2q (2) via the master unit 2p and the slave unit 2q (1). The Ethernet communication control unit 207 of the main board 21 of the slave unit 2q (2) establishes communication with the external computer 3 or the display device 4, and transfers the image data stored in the image data storage unit 205 to the Ethernet switch 210. Through the slave unit 2q (1) and the master unit 2p, and transmits to the external computer 3 or the display device 4.

  At this time, a signal for reading image data is input from the Ethernet connector 214 of the parent device 2p to the Ethernet switch 210 of the parent device 2p. Since the Ethernet switch 210 of the parent device 2p does not read the image data of the parent device 2p, the signal for reading the image data is not communicated with the main board 21 of the parent device 2p, and the signal for reading the image data is the connection connector of the parent device 2p Then, the data is input to the Ethernet switch 210 of the slave unit 2q (1) via the connection connector 211 of the slave unit 2q (1).

  Similarly to the master unit 2p, the Ethernet switch 210 of the slave unit 2q (1) does not read the image data of the slave unit 2q (1), and therefore performs data communication with the main board 21 of the slave unit 2q (1). Instead, the signal for reading the image data passes through the connection connector 211 of the child device 2q (2) via the one connection connector 211 that is further away from the parent device 2p than the child device 2q (1), and passes through the child device 2q (2). 2) to the Ethernet switch 210. The Ethernet switch 210 of the slave unit 2q (2) determines that the image data of the slave unit 2q (2) is to be read, and reads the image data from the external computer 3 to the main board 21 of the slave unit 2q (2). Send a signal. The image data stored in the image data storage unit 205 in the main board 21 of the slave unit 2q (2) is transmitted to the external computer 3 along the same path.

  The image data includes the Ethernet switch 210 of the slave unit 2q (2), the connection connector 211, the connection connector 211 located away from the master unit 2p of the slave unit 2q (1), the Ethernet switch 210, and the position close to the master unit 2p. The data is transmitted to the external computer 3 via the connection connector 211, the connection connector 211 of the parent device 2 p, the Ethernet switch 210, and the Ethernet connector 214. At this time, image data is not transmitted to the main board 21 of the controller 2 other than the connected slave unit 2q (2).

  Of course, it is possible to request not only the latest image data but also display the past image data stored in the image data storage unit 205 and the determination results such as the presence or absence of defects.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the imaging device 12 including the imaging unit 12 that images the inspection object and the illumination unit 11 that irradiates the inspection object with light, and the imaging unit 12 of the imaging device 1. Since the image processing is performed on the acquired image data and the controller 2 that determines the quality of the inspection target is separately provided, the imaging device 1 itself can be downsized and arranged adjacent to each other. Even if it exists, since it can arrange | position if there is only a small space for arrange | positioning the imaging device 1 in the vicinity of a test subject, there are few restrictions on the position to arrange | position. Further, only at least the master unit 2p of the controller 2 is provided with an Ethernet connector (communication interface) 214 capable of data communication with the external computer 3 or the display device 4, and the slave unit 2q has at least the master unit 2p. Data communication is performed with the external computer 3 or the display device 4 via the Ethernet connector (communication interface) 214. Accordingly, the slave unit 2q can independently perform data communication with the external computer 3 or the display device 4 without increasing the processing load on the master unit 2p. Further, since the cables connected to the Ethernet connector (communication interface) 214 used for data communication with the external computer 3 or the display device 4, for example, the Ethernet cable 23 are provided only at least in the master unit 2p, a plurality of images are provided. Even when the processing sensor is used, the wiring of the cables does not become complicated. Image data acquired by the imaging devices 1 of a plurality of connected image processing sensors can be transmitted to the external computer 3 or the display device 4 via the Ethernet cable 23.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic circuit diagram showing a connection form of the Ethernet switch 210 of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, in the first embodiment, the Ethernet switches 210 of the adjacent controllers 2 are connected by signal lines, and a pulse transformer as an insulating element is not required, and a pulse transformer is connected between the Ethernet switches 210. It has not been. Therefore, since the number of parts can be reduced, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the controller 2 can be downsized depending on the arrangement. The pulse transformer has an effect of improving noise resistance when data communication is performed with the external computer 3 or the display device 4. However, since the Ethernet switch 210 in the first embodiment is used only for internal data communication, there is no need to provide it. Accordingly, the manufacturing cost can be reduced accordingly.

(Embodiment 2)
Since the configuration of the image processing sensor according to the second embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the first embodiment, the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals for detailed description. Omitted. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the processing results in each controller 2 are stored together in the parent device (one controller) 2p.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, one controller 2p that functions as a master unit and another controller 2q that functions as a slave unit are connected adjacently, and the other controllers 2q are further connected in series. Show. In the second embodiment, one controller 2p as a master unit is connected to a main board 21 composed of a microcomputer, FPGA, DSP, gate array, etc., with a connector 211, an imaging device connector 212, and an I / O connector 213. The Ethernet connector 214 and the power terminal 215 are connected. In addition, the other controller 2q that is the slave unit is connected to the main board 21 with the connection connector 211, the imaging device connector 212, and the I / O connector 213, but is different from the one controller 2p that is the master unit. The Ethernet connector 214 and the power supply terminal 215 are not provided. That is, the Ethernet connector 214 is provided only in the parent device 2p provided with the image processing result storage unit 206 that collectively stores the processing results of the image processing. Further, the other controller 2q that is the slave unit in the second embodiment does not include the image processing result storage unit 206 and is different from the other controller 2q that is the slave unit in the first embodiment, and controls inter-device communication control. The difference is that a portion 220 is provided.

  The main board 21 is not limited to a single unit such as a microcomputer, an FPGA, a DSP, and a gate array, and may be configured by combining, for example, an FPGA and a DSP and a DSP and a gate array. However, it may be constituted by a plurality of DSPs for parallel processing. The main board 21 includes, as function blocks, a trigger control unit 201, an I / O control unit 202, a mutual interference control unit 203, an image processing unit 204, an image data storage unit 205, an image processing result storage unit 206, an Ethernet communication control unit 207, A setting storage unit 208, an imaging device communication control unit 209, an inter-device communication control unit 220, and the like are provided.

  At least the image processing result storage unit 206 of the parent device 2p collectively stores the image data processed by the child device 2q and processing results such as pattern search processing. Transmission and reception of image data and processing results between the controllers 2 (between the parent device and the parent device and between the child device and the child device) are executed via the inter-device communication control unit 220.

  The Ethernet communication control unit 207 controls Ethernet communication, and external computer 3 or display device 4 such as image data stored in the image data storage unit 205 or processing results stored in the image processing result storage unit 206. Executes output and transmission / reception of setting data. The setting storage unit 208 stores setting information such as an IP address, a MAC address, and setting data for a mutual interference prevention function.

  In the second embodiment, the Ethernet switch 210 is not provided. This is because it is sufficient to transmit the processing results stored at least in the master unit 2p to the external computer 3 or the display device 4.

  Therefore, the connection connector 211 connects adjacent controllers 2 and functions as a transmission / reception path for processing results obtained by image processing by the slave unit 2q in addition to control signals such as a mutual interference trigger signal and image data. And electric power is also supplied to each subunit | mobile_unit 2q from the power supply terminal 215 via the connection connector 211. FIG.

  The Ethernet connector 214 is provided at least in the master unit 2p. The Ethernet connector 214 is connected to the main board 21. When the slave unit 2q performs data communication with the external computer 3 or the display device 4, the Ethernet connector 214 is passed through the Ethernet connector 214. That is, when there is a request for image data acquisition from the external computer 3 or the display device 4 to the master unit 2p, the master unit 2p acquires the image data from the slave unit 2q and is aggregated in the master unit 2p. The image data of the slave unit 2q is output to the external computer 3 at once.

  As in the first embodiment, the power supply terminal 215 is provided only in the parent device 2p. Power is supplied from the parent device 2p to the child device 2q via the connection connector 211. With such a configuration, even when a plurality of image processing sensors are used, the wiring of cables such as the Ethernet cable 23 or the power supply cable can be simplified, and replacement or replacement of the image processing sensor is possible. Can be easily performed.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, at least the master unit 2p performs data communication with the external computer 3 (display device 4) via the Ethernet connector (communication interface) 214. The results can be transmitted to the external computer 3 (display device 4) in a batch at any timing including the processing results in the slave unit 2q.

  In the second embodiment, in the list display of the controllers 2 to be connected, the MAC address, IP address, etc. necessary for Ethernet communication are only required for at least the master unit 2p, and not required for the slave unit 2q. is there. FIG. 12 is a view showing an example of a list of controllers 2 displayed on the computer 3 outside the image processing sensor system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  In the example of FIG. 12, as in the first embodiment, the controller 2 having the Ethernet connector 214 and the power supply terminal 215 is the master unit 2p, and the other controller 2 is the slave unit 2q. The master device 2p displays the type, MAC address, IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway of the imaging device 1. On the other hand, only the model of the imaging device 1 is sufficient for the slave unit 2q. Accordingly, even when the image processing sensor is replaced or exchanged, the amount of setting information to be updated is small.

(Embodiment 3)
Since the configuration of the image processing sensor according to the third embodiment of the present invention is almost the same as that of the first and second embodiments, the same or similar functions are denoted by the same reference numerals in detail. The detailed explanation is omitted. The third embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in that a communication unit for data communication with an external computer 3 or display device 4 is provided separately from the controller 2.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image processing sensor according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. In FIG. 13, one controller 2p functioning as a master unit and another controller 2q functioning as a slave unit are connected adjacent to each other, and the other controllers 2q are further connected in series. The communication unit 5 is coupled to the last (or midway) of the other controllers 2q that are continuously connected.

  In FIG. 13, one controller 2p which is a master unit is connected to a main board 21 composed of a microcomputer, FPGA, DSP, gate array, etc., a connection connector 211, an imaging device connector 212, an I / O connector 213, and a power source. Terminal 215 is connected. The other controller 2q as a slave unit is connected to the main board 21 with a connection connector 211, an imaging device connector 212, and an I / O connector 213.

  The main board 21 is not limited to a single unit such as a microcomputer, an FPGA, a DSP, and a gate array, and may be configured by combining, for example, an FPGA and a DSP and a DSP and a gate array. However, it may be constituted by a plurality of DSPs for parallel processing. The main board 21 includes, as functional blocks, a trigger control unit 201, an I / O control unit 202, a mutual interference control unit 203, an image processing unit 204, an image data storage unit 205, an image processing result storage unit 206, a setting storage unit 208, an imaging A device communication control unit 209, an inter-device communication control unit 220, and the like are provided.

  Transmission and reception of image data and processing results between the controllers 2 are performed via the inter-device communication control unit 220, and data communication with the external computer 3 (display device 4) is performed via the communication unit 5.

  In the communication unit 5, a connection connector 504 and an Ethernet connector 505 are connected to a communication board 51 constituted by a microcomputer, FPGA, DSP, gate array, and the like.

  The communication board 51 includes an Ethernet communication control unit 501, a setting storage unit 502, an inter-device communication control unit 503, and the like as functional blocks. The Ethernet communication control unit 501 controls Ethernet communication, such as image data stored in the image data storage unit 205 for each connected controller 2 or processing results stored in the image processing result storage unit 206. Output to an external computer 3 or display device 4, transmission / reception of setting data, and the like are executed. The setting storage unit 502 collectively stores setting information such as, for example, the IP address, MAC address, and mutual interference prevention function setting data of each controller 2. The inter-device communication control unit 503 controls data communication between the parent device 2p and the child device 2q, and transmits and receives image data and processing results between the parent device 2p and the child device 2q.

  The connection connector 504 is connected to the adjacent controller 2 and functions as a transmission / reception path for processing results obtained by image processing by the slave unit 2q in addition to control signals such as a mutual interference trigger signal and image data. The power supplied from the power supply terminal 215 of the parent device 2p is also supplied to the communication unit 5 through the connection connector 504.

  The Ethernet connector (other communication interface) 505 is provided only in the communication unit 5. The Ethernet connector 505 is connected to the communication board 51. When the controller 2 performs data communication with the external computer 3 or the display device 4, processing by the communication board 51 of the communication unit 5 is required.

  As in the first and second embodiments, the power supply terminal 215 is provided only at least in the parent device 2p. Power is supplied from the parent device 2p to the child device 2q and the communication unit 5 via the connection connector 211. By supplying power from the parent device 2p, even if the communication unit 5 is not provided, the parent device 2p and the child device 2q can be operated as image processing sensors. In this way, even when a plurality of image processing sensors are used, the wiring of cables such as communication cables or power cables can be simplified, and replacement and replacement of the image processing sensors can be easily performed. It can be carried out. A mutual interference prevention trigger signal to be described later may be transmitted from the communication unit 5 side or from the parent device 2p side.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the image processing sensor includes the communication unit 5 having the Ethernet connector (other communication interface) 505 that performs data communication with the external computer 3 (display device 4). The data communication with the external computer 3 can be performed via the communication interface of the communication unit 5.

  In the third embodiment, in the list display of the controllers 2 to be connected, the MAC address, IP address, etc. necessary for Ethernet communication are required only for the communication unit 5, and the master unit 2p is also provided with the slave unit. It is not necessary for 2q. FIG. 14 is an exemplary view of a list of controllers 2 displayed on the computer 3 outside the image processing sensor system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In the example of FIG. 14, the controller 2 having the power supply terminal 215 is the parent device 2 p and the other controller 2 is the child device 2 q. The communication unit 5 displays the type of the communication unit 5, the type of the imaging device 1, the MAC address, the IP address, the subnet mask, and the default gateway. On the other hand, only the type of the imaging device 1 is sufficient for the controller 2 for both the parent device 2p and the child device 2q. Accordingly, even when the image processing sensor is replaced or exchanged, the amount of setting information to be updated is small.

(Embodiment 4)
The fourth embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for preventing mutual interference in the image processing sensor system shown in the first to third embodiments. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an overlapping state of illumination areas of the imaging device 1 of the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. When the imaging device 1 is downsized, the imaging devices 1 are often arranged close to each other. Although the imaging apparatus 1 itself can be reduced in size, when the imaging region and the irradiation region are not reduced, a phenomenon in which the irradiation regions overlap is likely to occur. In this case, since the irradiation region 161 of one imaging device 1 and the irradiation region 162 of another imaging device 1 are close to each other, a region 163 in which the irradiation regions overlap with each other is generated.

  Usually, the irradiation region and the imaging region are set so that the imaging region of the imaging device 1 is within the illumination irradiation region. When an irradiation region of another imaging device 1 arranged adjacent to the irradiation region of one imaging device 1 is overlapped, an area 163 where the irradiation regions overlap with each other is generated. A phenomenon may occur in which the regions 163 that overlap each other are included.

  Since each image processing sensor independently functions as one image processing sensor, including the adjacent image processing sensors, irradiation of the inspection object by illumination, turning off the illumination, imaging, and image processing are performed at their own timing. Operate to do. Even when the illumination regions of the image processing sensors arranged close to each other overlap, the region 163 where the illumination regions overlap with each other does not occur unless the illumination timings of the respective illuminations match.

  When such an area 163 where the irradiation areas overlap each other is included in the imaging area by the imaging apparatus 1, the illumination is too bright, so-called whiteout occurs, and it is difficult to maintain high quality of the captured image. . In addition, when the imaging area of one image processing sensor is illuminated with illumination from another image processing sensor, the brightness of the part illuminated by the illumination of the other image processing sensor during imaging is too strong. It becomes difficult to obtain normal image data of the object.

  In the fourth embodiment, the irradiation and / or extinguishing timing of the illuminating unit 11 of the imaging device 1 does not depend on the arrangement of the imaging device 1 so that such a region 163 where the irradiation regions overlap with each other does not occur, Mutual interference prevention control is performed for adjusting the imaging timing of the imaging devices 1 that are adjacent or arranged close to each other.

  Since the configuration itself of the image processing sensor according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention is the same as that of Embodiments 1 to 3, detailed description will be given by attaching the same reference numerals to components having the same functions. Is omitted. Any configuration of the first to third embodiments may be used, but the feature is that the mutual interference control unit 203 of the functional block of the controller 2 is made to function.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Although not shown in FIG. 16, at least the master unit (one controller) 2p of the image processing sensor according to the fourth embodiment is also a microcomputer, FPGA, DSP, and gate array as in the first embodiment. The Ethernet switch 210, the connection connector 211, the imaging device connector 212, the I / O connector 213, and the power supply terminal 215 are connected to the main board 21 configured by the above. In the other controller 2, an Ethernet switch 210, a connection connector 211, an imaging device connector 212, and an I / O connector 213 are connected.

  The main board 21 is not limited to a single unit such as a microcomputer, an FPGA, a DSP, and a gate array, and may be configured by combining, for example, an FPGA and a DSP and a DSP and a gate array. However, it may be constituted by a plurality of DSPs for parallel processing. The main board 21 includes, as function blocks, a trigger control unit 201, an I / O control unit 202, a mutual interference control unit 203, an image processing unit 204, an image data storage unit 205, an image processing result storage unit 206, an Ethernet communication control unit 207, A setting storage unit 208, an imaging device communication control unit 209, and the like are provided. Detailed description of functional blocks having the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment will be omitted.

  The mutual interference control unit 203 transmits a mutual interference prevention trigger signal to the controller 2 connected adjacently. That is, the adjacent controllers 2 generate and transmit a mutual interference prevention trigger signal when a series of processing of delay time elapse, lighting on, imaging, and lighting off is completed.

  In the example of FIG. 16, four controllers 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d are grouped into a first group 2A and a second group 2B. Controllers 2a and 2b belong to the first group 2A, and controllers 2c and 2d belong to the second group 2B.

  By the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3, the timing of irradiation and imaging is controlled so as not to interfere with each other in the controller 2 of the image processing sensor or in units of groups. In the fourth embodiment, by switching the plurality of switches SW1, SW2, and SW3, the on / off of the mutual interference prevention function is switched in units of groups, and the timing of irradiation and imaging is controlled by the trigger signals Trg1 to Trg3.

  For example, whether or not the mutual interference prevention function is turned on for each group can be controlled by switching a plurality of switches SW1, SW2, and SW3. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the switch switching process of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 17, the controller 2 of the image processing sensor determines whether or not to turn off the mutual interference prevention function based on information from the external computer 3 (step S1701). Here, when the mutual interference prevention function is turned off, it is assumed that the controller 2 that determines whether or not to turn off and the controller 2 to be controlled belong to different groups.

  In the example of FIG. 16, since the controller 2b belongs to the same group as the controller 2a which is the parent device, the mutual interference prevention function is turned on. Since the controller 2d belongs to the same group as the controller 2c, the mutual interference prevention function is turned on.

  On the other hand, since the controller 2c belongs to a group different from the controller 2b connected to the parent device 2a, the mutual interference prevention function of the controller 2c is turned off.

  When the controller 2 determines to turn off the mutual interference prevention function (step S1701: YES), the controller 2 switches the switch SW1 to the Trg2 side, the switch SW2 to OFF, and the switch SW3 to the GND side (step). S1702). In the example of FIG. 16, the mutual interference prevention function of the controller 2c is turned off.

  When the controller 2 determines to turn on the mutual interference prevention function (step S1701: NO), the controller 2 switches the switch SW1 to the Trg3 side, the switch SW2 to the ON state, and the switch SW3 to the D_RST3 side (step). S1703). In the example of FIG. 16, the mutual interference prevention function is turned on for the controller 2b and the controller 2d.

  Thereby, the setting of the group that wants to use the mutual interference prevention function is completed. When the mutual interference prevention function is set in an unnecessarily large number of controllers 2, other processing may be delayed to prevent mutual interference. Therefore, a group is configured only within a necessary range, and the mutual interference prevention function is allowed to function only within the configured group. There are various group configuration methods, but an image processing sensor in which the imaging region is close, an image processing sensor in which the imaging devices 1 are arranged close to each other, and irradiation from one illumination unit 11 is another imaging region. Alternatively, image processing sensors or the like that can enter the irradiation region can be configured as one group and set so as not to interfere with each other.

  The on / off setting of the mutual interference prevention function is accepted from a setting screen displayed on the external computer 3 or the display device 4. FIG. 18 is a view showing an example of a setting screen for turning on / off (valid / invalidating) the mutual interference prevention function in the computer 3 or display device 4 outside the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 18, an image captured by the selected image processing sensor is displayed in the inspection object display area 181, and the user looks at the displayed image to determine whether or not to enable the mutual interference prevention function. Enter.

  Specifically, selection of “trigger condition” is accepted in the imaging condition setting area 182. The internal trigger is a setting for starting imaging at a specified time interval, and the external trigger is a setting for starting imaging at a timing input from a PLC or the like. In the setting of the trigger condition, a mutual interference prevention function setting button 183 for setting on / off of the mutual interference prevention function is displayed. The user can turn on or off the mutual interference prevention function by selecting either the “valid” button or the “invalid” button. By enabling or disabling the mutual interference prevention function on the external computer 3 or the display device 4 and transmitting it to the image processing sensor (controller 2), each image processing sensor enables or disables the mutual interference prevention function. Is set.

  It is not necessary to set the mutual interference prevention function on / off for each individual image processing sensor, but to set all the image processing sensors connected to the external computer 3 or the display device 4 at once. You can also. FIG. 19 is a view showing an example of a batch setting screen for turning on / off the mutual interference prevention function in the computer 3 or the display device 4 outside the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

  In the example of FIG. 1, no. 2, no. 3, no. 4 and no. 5 are connected. As shown in FIG. 19, a group can be set for each controller 2. In the example of FIG. 1 is set as a group 1, and the mutual interference prevention function is exhibited in the group 1. In addition, the master unit and the slave unit No. 3, no. 4, no. 5 are set as group 3, and the slave unit No. 2 is set as a group different from the groups 1 and 3. In this way, after setting a group on the external computer 3 or the display device 4, by selecting a “setting change” button shown in FIG. 19, each image processing sensor (controller 2) is selected from the external computer 3 or the display device 4. ) Is set to determine whether or not the mutual interference prevention function is to function, and the controller 2 controls the transmission of the control signal (mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3) based on the transmitted signal.

  Further, the trigger signal Trg2 can be received by the I / O connector 213. Thus, for example, for group A, the input of the trigger signal Trg1 from the external computer 3 can be received, and for group B, the input of the trigger signal Trg2 from the I / O connector 213 can be received.

  For example, in the example of FIG. 19, which group belongs to the display order can be set for each controller 2. When all the controllers 2 are set to belong to the same group, it is necessary to set so that the controllers 2 in one group do not interfere with each other. Here, when there are a plurality of controllers 2 in the same group, the mutual interference prevention function operates in one group, and the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is transmitted so that the image processing sensors in one group do not interfere with each other. The Note that, in the example of FIG. 1 and handset No. 2 and the slave unit no. 2 and handset No. 3, the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg 3 is not transmitted. This is because there is no need to prevent mutual interference if the groups are different.

  In other words, since mutual interference is not prevented as a group, it means that the mutual interference prevention function between the groups is set to off. Further, when a plurality of groups are set, this means that the mutual interference prevention function is set to ON between the groups. The set information is stored in the setting storage unit 208 for each controller 2.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the mutual interference prevention process of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 20, the controller 2 of the image processing sensor inquires of the setting storage unit 208 and determines whether or not the mutual interference prevention function is off (step S2001).

  When the controller 2 determines that the mutual interference prevention function is off (step S2001: YES), the controller 2 determines whether the trigger signal Trg1 or the trigger signal Trg2 has been received (step S2002). When the controller 2 determines that no signal has been received yet (step S2002: NO), the controller 2 enters a reception waiting state. The trigger signal Trg1 or the trigger signal Trg2 may be a trigger signal generated inside the controller 2, or may be a trigger signal input from the outside.

  When the controller 2 determines that the trigger signal Trg1 or the trigger signal Trg2 is received (step S2002: YES), the controller 2 determines whether or not the signal Done3 is on (step S2003). When the controller 2 determines that the signal Done3 is off (step S2003: NO), the controller 2 generates a trigger error (step S2004), returns the processing to step S2002, and repeats the above-described processing.

  When the controller 2 determines that the signal Done3 is on (step S2003: YES), the controller 2 turns on the signal D_RST1 or D_RST2, turns off the signal Done2 (step S2005), and the process proceeds to step S2007. Proceed.

  When the controller 2 determines that the mutual interference prevention function is on (step S2001: NO), the controller 2 determines whether or not the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 has been received (step S2006). When the controller 2 determines that the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 has not been received (step S2006: NO), the controller 2 enters a reception waiting state.

  When the controller 2 determines that the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 has been received (step S2006: YES), the controller 2 determines whether or not there is a delay time setting from the reception of the mutual interference prevention trigger signal to the start of imaging. Judgment is made (step S2007). When the controller 2 determines that there is no delay time setting (step S2007: NO), the controller 2 advances the process to step S2009. When the controller 2 determines that the delay time is set (step S2007: YES), the controller 2 determines whether or not the set delay time has elapsed (step S2008).

  When the controller 2 determines that the set delay time has not elapsed (step S2008: NO), the controller 2 enters a state of waiting for progress. When the controller 2 determines that the set delay time has elapsed (step S2008: YES), the controller 2 transmits a lighting signal to the illumination unit 11 of the imaging device 1 (step S2009), and then to the imaging unit 12. An imaging process start signal and a stop signal are transmitted to execute the imaging process (step S2010).

  The controller 2 transmits a turn-off signal to the illumination unit 11 of the imaging device 1 (step S2011), receives image data (step S2012), and executes image processing (step S2013). The controller 2 turns on the signal Done2 (step S2014) and ends the process. Further, the controller 2 transmits a turn-off signal to the illumination unit 11 of the imaging device 1 (step S2011), and then transmits a mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 in parallel (step S2015), and ends the process.

  The image processing in step S2013 includes trapezoidal correction, brightness correction, position correction, and the like of the captured image. As long as the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is transmitted after imaging of the inspection object (after acquisition of raw image data and after completion of exposure), the adjacent imaging device immediately receives the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3. Even if lighting of the illumination unit 11 is started at 1, no mutual interference occurs.

  If the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is transmitted after the end of the image processing in step S2013, the adjacently connected image processing is performed until the image processing is started after the extinction signal is transmitted in step S2011. The sensor enters an imaging waiting state. This is because the image processing in step S2013 may take a considerable amount of time. After the turn-off signal is transmitted in step S2011, the illumination of the illumination unit 11 is turned off. Therefore, even if the image processing sensor that receives the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 starts imaging, it is within the imaging region of the image processing sensor. The illumination of the adjacent image processing sensor is not irradiated.

  Here, after the extinction signal is transmitted in step S2011, the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is transmitted in step S2015. The timing for transmitting the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is not particularly limited to this. For example, the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 may be transmitted in anticipation of the turn-off timing so that the light is turned off after a predetermined time has elapsed after the light is turned on. In addition, the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 may be transmitted in anticipation of the timing to turn off the illumination so that the illumination is turned off after a predetermined time has elapsed after the start of the imaging process. Any signal regarding completion may be used.

  FIG. 21 is an exemplary timing chart of various signals of the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 21, a timing chart in the case where the mutual interference prevention process is performed between the parent device 2p and the child device 2q is shown.

  First, at timing (1), the trigger signal Trg1 of the parent device 2p is turned on. However, since the image processing in the child device 2q is incomplete (the image processing signal in the child device 2q remains on), the signal Done3 of the parent device 2p remains in the off state. Therefore, the trigger error signal is turned on and a trigger error occurs.

  At timing (2), the trigger signal Trg1 of the parent device 2p is turned on again. Since the signal Done3 of the parent device 2p remains on, the signal D_RST1 of the parent device 2p is turned on, and the signal Done2 of the parent device 2p and the child device 2q is turned off. Therefore, the illumination control signal and the exposure control signal of the parent device 2p are turned on, and the control of the imaging device 1 of the parent device 2p is started.

  At timing (3), the illumination control signal and the exposure control signal of the parent device 2p are turned off, the image processing signal of the parent device 2p is turned on, and the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 of the parent device 2p is turned on. Therefore, the illumination control signal and the exposure control signal of the slave unit 2q are turned on, and the control of the imaging device 1 of the slave unit 2q is started.

  At timing (4), the signal Done2 of the parent device 2p is turned on while the signal Done2 of the child device 2q is kept on, and the image processing signal of the parent device 2p is turned off. Accordingly, the signal Done3 of the parent device 2p is turned on, and the next trigger signal can be received.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the controller 2 of one image processing sensor arranged adjacent to the controller 2 of the other image processing sensor sends a signal indicating that imaging and irradiation have been completed. Since the controller 2 of the other image processing sensor starts imaging and irradiation after receiving the signal, even if the imaging device 1 of the image processing sensor is arranged adjacently, interference due to light irradiation Does not occur, and the quality of the captured image is not degraded. One or a plurality of image processing sensors constitute one group, and the controller 2 of one image processing sensor transmits a signal indicating that imaging and irradiation have been completed to the controller 2 of another image processing sensor. The controller 2 of the other image processing sensor starts imaging and irradiation when a signal is received. As a result, interference due to light irradiation does not occur in the group, and the quality of an image to be captured does not deteriorate.

  In the above-described fourth embodiment, each controller 2 only needs to obtain the setting information of the other controller 2 every time. However, of course, the parent device 2p collectively collects the setting information of the child device 2q. You may acquire and manage intensively.

  The fourth embodiment can be applied to a case where a plurality of image processing sensors are used and a plurality of imaging devices 1 are arranged adjacent to or close to each other. The case where the imaging devices 1 are adjacent to each other and arranged in contact with each other includes the case where the imaging devices 1 are arranged close to each other. The fourth embodiment can be applied even when a plurality of image processing sensors do not capture the same inspection object.

(Embodiment 5)
Embodiment 5 of the present invention relates to a method for detecting a communication loop caused by a network connection error in the image processing sensor system shown in Embodiments 1 to 4 described above. FIG. 22 is an exemplary diagram of a connection state in which a communication loop of the image processing sensor system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention may occur.

  As shown in FIG. 22, the image processing sensor used in the image processing sensor system according to the fifth embodiment is connected to the imaging device 1 through a connection cable so as to be able to perform data communication with the imaging device 1. It comprises an apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a controller) 2.

  The imaging apparatus 1 includes a camera module (imaging unit) having an image sensor that images an inspection object, and an illumination unit that irradiates light to the inspection object. In order to reduce the size of the imaging apparatus 1, the controller 2 that executes image processing is provided separately from the imaging apparatus 1. In the image processing, a part of processing (preprocessing such as filter processing) is executed in the imaging apparatus 1, the image data after execution is transmitted to the controller 2, and the remaining image processing is executed by the controller 2. The captured image may be transmitted to the controller 2 as it is.

  The controller 2 connected to the imaging device 1 with a connection cable includes an FPGA, a DSP, and the like that execute image processing therein, and controls the operations of the imaging unit and the illumination unit of the imaging device 1 and acquires them. Perform image processing on the image. In particular, the DSP performs color area detection processing, pattern search processing, and the like on the image. Further, as a result of the image processing, an OK / NG signal (determination signal) indicating whether the inspection object is good or not is output depending on whether the inspection object is detected. Of course, the FPGA may be executed depending on circumstances. The OK / NG signal is sent from the I / O connector 213 provided in the controllers 2p and 2q to the external PLC, other photoelectric sensor / proximity sensor, indicator lamp, etc. (hereinafter, PLC etc.) via the I / O cable. Is output. The I / O connector 213 is provided in each controller 2 including not only the parent device 2p but also the child device 2q.

  The plurality of controllers 2 arranged adjacent to each other are connected so as to be able to perform data communication with each other via a connection connector 211 shown in FIG. Of the plurality of controllers 2 connected to each other, at least one controller 2p includes an Ethernet connector 214 and a power supply terminal 215 as a parent device. The other controller 2q as a slave unit is also provided with an Ethernet connector 224. In FIG. 22, two slave units 2q are connected, but the number of slave units to be connected is not limited to this. For example, any number of slave units such as four slave units and eight slave units can be connected. The machine can be set to connection. Further, two controllers 2 having a parent device and a child device may be connected to the right of the two child devices 2q.

  The plurality of image processing sensors and the external computer 3 or display device 4 are connected to the hub 240 by the Ethernet connector 214 and the Ethernet cable 23 of at least one controller (master device) 2p, and the hub 240 and the Ethernet cable 23 are connected. By being connected, data communication of image data is performed. The plurality of controllers 2 arranged adjacent to each other perform data communication with each other via the connection connector 211.

  As shown in FIG. 22, when the rightmost slave unit 2q is erroneously connected to the hub 240 by the Ethernet cable 23b, a packet to be transmitted from the slave unit 2q to the next slave unit 2q is Come back to 2p. That is, a so-called communication loop occurs in which the same packet as the packet transmitted by the parent device 2p returns to the parent device 2p (see arrow 241).

  Therefore, whether or not a communication loop has occurred due to a connection error or the like of the Ethernet cable 23 can be determined by whether or not the same packet as the transmitted packet has been received, for example. FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the communication loop detection process of the controller 2 of the image processing sensor according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The communication loop detection process shown in FIG. 23 is executed by the slave unit 2q in principle, but it goes without saying that it may be executed by the master unit 2p.

  In FIG. 23, the controller 2 of the image processing sensor broadcasts detection packets at regular time intervals (step S2301). The content of the detection packet is not particularly limited, but an amount of information that can determine that a packet having the same content has been detected is necessary.

  The controller 2 determines whether or not a packet that completely matches the detected packet has been received (step S2302). When it is determined that the controller 2 has not received a completely matching packet (step S2302: NO), the controller 2 determines whether or not a certain time has elapsed (step S2303). When the controller 2 determines that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed (step S2303: NO), the controller 2 returns the process to step S2302 and repeats the above-described process. If the controller 2 determines that a certain time has elapsed (step S2303: YES), the controller 2 determines that no communication loop has occurred and ends the process.

  If the controller 2 determines that a completely matching packet has been received (step S2302: YES), the controller 2 determines that a communication loop has occurred and executes communication loop disconnection processing (step S2304). The communication loop disconnection process is not particularly limited. For example, until the controller 2 is restarted, the Ethernet communication between the master unit 2p and the slave unit 2q and the Ethernet communication between the slave unit 2q and the slave unit 2q are disconnected. Alternatively, the controller 2 may be restarted after the wiring update. In addition, the base unit 2p also performs a communication loop detection process, and only the Ethernet communication between the base unit 2p and the handset 2q where the occurrence of the communication loop is detected, or the handset 2q where the occurrence of the communication loop is detected. It is also possible to disconnect only the Ethernet communication between the master unit 2q and the other slave unit 2q and not stop the Ethernet communication between the master unit 2p and the other slave unit 2q.

  The communication loop detection method described above is merely an example, and it goes without saying that the occurrence of a communication loop may be detected using other methods. For example, a packet addressed to you may be transmitted.

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, when the occurrence of a communication loop is detected in at least one controller 2 among the controllers 2 of the plurality of image processing sensors, the process of cutting the detected communication loop is quickly performed. Therefore, even if an elementary mistake such as a wiring mistake occurs, the communication loop can be reliably eliminated.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and improvements can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the imaging device 1 and the controller 2 are not limited to a form directly connected by a connection cable, and it goes without saying that they may be connected via a network such as a LAN or WAN. Moreover, in the said Example, although the imaging device 1 and the controller 2 were provided separately, as long as it can reduce in size, the image processing sensor of the type with which both are united may be sufficient. In this case, data communication can be performed by connecting the image processing sensors. In the above embodiment, the power supply terminal 215 is provided only in one controller 2p that is a parent device, but may be provided in another controller 2q that is a child device.

  In the above-described embodiment, a DSP, FPGA, or the like is used as the semiconductor device provided in the imaging device 1. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and any semiconductor device that can realize the same function is used. It goes without saying that it is good.

  Further, when the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is not transmitted between the groups, in the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is used as the first image processing sensor of another group using SW1. This is not transmitted to (controller 2). However, the method of not transmitting the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 between the groups is not particularly limited to this. For example, the last stage of the group (in the example of FIG. 16, the controller 2b or the controller 2d) may not transmit the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3. Even if the input of the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 is received at the front stage of the group (the controller 2c in the example of FIG. 16), the mutual interference prevention trigger signal Trg3 that has received the input is used, or The imaging operation may not be performed based on the interference prevention trigger signal Trg3.

1 imaging device 2 controller (image processing device)
2p master unit (one controller, one image processing device)
2q cordless handset (other controllers, other image processing devices)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 3 External computer 4 Display apparatus 5 Communication unit 11 Illumination part 12 Imaging part 21 Main board 206 Processing result memory | storage part 210 Ethernet switch 214, 224 Ethernet connector (communication interface)
215 Power supply terminal

Claims (11)

An imaging device having an imaging unit that images the inspection object and an illumination unit that irradiates the inspection object with light; and
Is connected to the imaging device via a connecting cable for data communication with the imaging device, connecting a connector is provided on the housing side, the running image processing on the acquired image by the imaging device An image processing apparatus for determining the quality of an inspection object;
A plurality of image processing sensors comprising :
In the plurality of image processing sensors, the housings of the plurality of image processing devices are arranged adjacent to each other, the connection connectors on opposite sides of the plurality of image processing devices are connected to each other, and the image processing devices adjacent to each other are connected . a images processing sensor system for communicating data including image through the coupling connector between,
The image processing apparatus of at least one image processing sensor is:
An image processing unit that performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device of the one image processing sensor;
The data including the image which the image processing has been performed by the image processing unit, and a communication interface for transmitting to an external computer or display device,
It is disposed so as to be interposed between the image processing unit and the communication interface, and is connected to a connection connector provided in an image processing apparatus of the one image processing sensor, and the external computer or the An Ethernet switch for Ethernet communication with the display device;
With
The Ethernet switch, data including an image in which the image processing has been performed by other image processing sensor, after receiving through the connecting connector, sent to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface image processing sensor system comprising a signal to Turkey. The one image processing sensor includes a processing result storage unit that stores image data after image processing, including image data after image processing in the other image processing sensor,
The image processing sensor according to claim 1 , wherein the image data after image processing stored in the processing result storage unit is transmitted to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface. system. In place of the communication interface provided in the one image processing sensor and capable of data communication with the external computer or the display device , another communication interface for data communication with the external computer or the display device is provided. The image processing sensor system according to claim 1, further comprising a communication unit having the image processing unit. A power supply terminal is provided only in the one image processing sensor,
The image processing sensor of the one, the image processing sensor system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that for supplying power to the other image processing sensor. At least one of the plurality of image processing sensors includes a communication loop detection unit that detects occurrence of a communication loop,
5. The image processing sensor system according to claim 1 , wherein when the occurrence of a communication loop is detected, the one image processing sensor executes a process for cutting the detected communication loop. 6. . An imaging device having an imaging unit that images the inspection object and an illumination unit that irradiates the inspection object with light; and
Connected to the imaging device via a connection cable for data communication with the imaging device, a connection connector is provided on the side of the housing, and performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device, An image processing apparatus for determining the quality of an inspection object;
A plurality of image processing sensors comprising:
In the plurality of image processing sensors , the housings of the plurality of image processing devices are arranged adjacent to each other, the connection connectors on opposite sides of the plurality of image processing devices are connected to each other, and the image processing devices adjacent to each other are connected. An image processing sensor control method that can be executed by an image processing sensor system that communicates data including an image via the connection connector
The image processing apparatus of at least one image processing sensor is:
An image processing unit that performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device of the one image processing sensor;
A communication interface for transmitting data including an image subjected to image processing by the image processing unit to an external computer or a display device;
It is disposed so as to be interposed between the image processing unit and the communication interface, and is connected to a connection connector provided in an image processing apparatus of the one image processing sensor, and the external computer or the An Ethernet switch for Ethernet communication with the display device;
With
The Ethernet switch receives data including an image processed by another image processing sensor via the connection connector, and then transmits the data to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface. images processing control method of the sensor you characterized by. The one image processing sensor stores image data after image processing, including image data after image processing in the other image processing sensor,
The image according to claim 6, wherein the one image processing sensor transmits stored image data after image processing to the external computer or the display device via the communication interface. Process sensor control method. The plurality of image processing sensors are connected to the external computer or the display device instead of the communication interface provided in the one image processing sensor and capable of data communication with the external computer or the display device. the image processing control method of the sensor according to claim 6, characterized in that by way of the communication unit with other communication interface for data communication to the computer or the display device and the data communication of the external. At least one of the plurality of image processing sensors detects the occurrence of a communication loop,
9. The image processing sensor according to claim 6 , wherein when the occurrence of a communication loop is detected, the one image processing sensor performs a process of disconnecting the detected communication loop . 10. Control method. An imaging device having an imaging unit that images the inspection object and an illumination unit that irradiates the inspection object with light; and
Connected to the imaging device via a connection cable for data communication with the imaging device, a connection connector is provided on the side of the housing, and performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device, An image processing apparatus for determining the quality of an inspection object;
In an image processing sensor comprising :
Another image processing sensor and the housings of the plurality of image processing apparatuses are arranged adjacent to each other, and the connection connectors on the opposite side surfaces of the plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected to each other, and between the adjacent image processing apparatuses. To communicate data including images via the connector,
The image processing apparatus includes:
An image processing unit that performs image processing on an image acquired by the imaging device;
A communication interface for transmitting data including an image subjected to image processing by the image processing unit to an external computer or a display device;
It is arranged so as to be interposed between the image processing unit and the communication interface, and is connected to a connection connector provided in the image processing apparatus, and communicates with the external computer or display device via the communication interface via Ethernet. Ethernet switch for
With
The Ethernet switch, and wherein the transmitting data including the image which the image processing has been performed outside, after receiving through the connection connector, the external computer or the display device via the communication interface images processing sensor you. Communication loop detection means for detecting the occurrence of a communication loop,
The image processing sensor according to claim 10, characterized in that to perform if it detects the occurrence of the communication loop, it disconnects the test out the communication loop.